Having a Native American background, I tend to work with symbols from that perspective. I currently am working on a spirit journey for my ranger character, Tyndariel, which is proving a bit more challenging than most as she is not exactly the most spiritual of characters except that she has developed this romanticized view on nature (growing up in the city) and forms as close of a bond as she is capable of forming with nature.
I’m curious about others views on what the animals I’ve chosen as her guides. To me, the eagle is the material planes embodiment of the Thunder Bird. I like that in the sense that as a bringer of rain, it links with waters cleansing and rebirth. Being part of the air totem, the eagle also embodies communication and dreams, which is why I chose it as her initial guide. The fact that it also embodies a masculine energy, freedom, skill, and power fits with the character. The wolf I picked for its loyalty and strength as well as communication. The fact that it has a lunar tie while the eagle has a solar tie felt well-balanced.
Tyndariel is actually based on one of my friends combined with elements from another friend. Of course, she is operating in an environment that is totally different and has different motivators, but I find that sometimes it helps to have something to draw on in order to make sure that she comes across three-dimensional. I’ll post part of her story soon in the excerpts section. For Frontier Justice!
